Adrenal Cancer

The adrenal glands are found above each kidney. They produce several hormones, including adrenaline (also known as epinephrine), which is the main blood-pressure raising hormone, and norepinephrine, which is the chemical way that messages are sent across the synapses between nerve cells.

Adrenal tumors occur when cells in the adrenal gland cause an oversupply of certain powerful hormones. This can cause a variety of conditions, from high blood pressure to panic attacks. Only about five percent of tumors that grow inside the adrenal glands are cancerous; 30% of those outside the glands are. Adrenal tumors are usually very small and usually can't be felt by a doctor.

Only about one in 1,000 people are likely to get adrenal cancer. Most commonly, the disease occurs in people between 30 and 60 years of age.

Symptoms

These are possible signs of adrenal cancer:

High blood pressure, either all the time or occasionally

A fast or pounding heart rate

Excessive sweating

Light-headedness when standing

Fast breathing

Flushed or cold and clammy skin

Severe headaches

Chest and stomach pain

Nausea or vomiting

Vision disturbances

Tingling fingers

Constipation

Panic attacks

Risk Factors

If you have any of the following conditions, you may be at a higher risk of developing adrenal tumors: